Evidence that Polar Cap Arcs Occur on Open Field Lines
Abstract
The characteristics of polar cap arc occurrence are reviewed to show that the assumption of a closed magnetospheric magnetic field topology at very high latitudes when the IMF B sub z is strongly northward is difficult to reconcile with a wide variety of observational and theoretical considerations. In particular, we consider the implications of observations of particle entry for high and low energy electrons, magnetic flux conservation between the near and far tail, the time sequencing in polar cap arcs events, and the hemispherical differences in polar cap arc observations. These points can be explained either by excluding the need for a major topological magnetic field change from explanations of polar cap arc dynamics, or by assuming a long-tailed magnetosphere for all IMF orientations in which magnetic field lines eventually merge with solar wind field lines in either a smooth or a patchy fashion. Keywords: Polar cap; Aurorae; Electron precipitation; Ion precipitation; IMF(Interplanetary Magnetic Field).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA225567
Entities
People
- D. A. Hardy
- E. G. Mullen
- F. J. Rich
- M. S. Gussenhoven
- R. H. Redus
Organizations
- Air Force Systems Command